Can philanthropy fill R&D grant gap if feds back away?

The Trump administration’s initial proposals for the fiscal 2018 budget appear to propose sweeping cuts in research grants in numerous agencies and programs. (Getty Images)

Question: Can philanthropy fill the gap left by reduced federal research grants?

Bob’s Answer: YES

Philanthropy already plays a significant role in scientific, engineering and medical research in the U.S. Over $4 billion annually is contributed to operations, endowment and buildings for research. When combined with endowment income, university research funding from science philanthropy is $7 billion annually. This major contribution to U.S. scientific competitiveness comes from private foundations and gifts from individuals. We must increase this even further to fill the gap left by reduced federal grants.